First Lady Cathy Justice donates a therapy dog to Belington Middle School

BRIDGEPORT, W.Va (WDTV) – First Lady Cathy Justice and other state representatives were at Belington Middle School to gift a one-year-old golden retriever to Belington Middle and Elementary Schools.

The first lady says therapy dogs boost student morale.

“Oh it’s wonderful when you see the excitement in their children and their faces, the joy it will bring to the schools, then it will improve attendance and behavior. They want to be at school to see the dog and that will be great,” said First Lady Cathy Justice.

Therapy dogs are made possible by communities in school programs. This initiative has placed 39 dogs in schools across the state.

Students say they love their new furry friend.

“I think it’s a great part of this school. Children come from rough backgrounds. Coming to this dog and petting him means detaching from his problems and work, and that can stress you out from homework and other things. School can be stressful. I think it’s a great part of this school,” Belington Middle School 8th grader Owen Hart said.

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